Obviously grooming serves to take care of the basics like keeping the coat healthy and a general overall health check up. However, it is also an excellent time to spend with your kitty bonding. It gets them used to being handled early as well.

Set aside a time for grooming and be sure to add these steps each time:
* An excellent grooming brush that you like, but kitty loves is basic for everyday brushing.
* Play with kitty’s nails from the time you get her. Push the nails out of the sockets and play with them to get kitty used to the feeling. Clip nails every other week so they get used to it.
* Baths for some cats need to be a regular part of grooming. Oily skin on Devon Rex, Cornish Rex and Sphynx must be maintained. Staring when they are young will help you when the nails come out!
* Other cats can be shaved like Persians or Maine Conns. Starting young will maintain their habit so they are used to the noises and stress of the grooming process.
* Ears get waxy build up in all types of cats, so a gentle cleaning is always in order.
* The eyes of some kittys will need daily cleaning as with Exotic Shorthairs and Persians. Always know that their tears are reddish brown so don’t be concerned about the odd color.
* Mouth checks and regular brushing are imperative as the majority of cats end up with dental disease.
* In addition, the rear end of your kitty may need a touch up. Long hair kittys can get matted and a little shave is often necessary.

Always keep basic grooming materials on hand:
* Several kind of brushes- a Furminator is awesome for cats with thick or undercoats.
* Q-tips
* Paper towels
* Cat shampoo and conditioner
* Kitty wipes
* A grooming kit for long coated cats
* Toothbrush and toothpaste
* Towels
* Nail clipper

Speak with your vet and groomer about the specific needs of your breed of cats. Even a domestic shorthair “mutt” needs to have regular care. Start early to make this a positive experience.

Looking for the perfect cat condos for your kitty? Then visit Dawns site where you can find the perfect cat tree for your kitty.

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With an emotionally abused cat, you will need to let the cat come to you. Feed and care for it conscientiously. Screaming, yelling, startling, and indiscriminate use of disciplinary tools, such as a water pistol should never be used. It can cause the emotional damaged to continue.

If the cat becomes mean, it is actually a good sign. A lethargic cat is harder to reach. The angry cat still cares what happens to it, while the lethargic cat could care less. The lethargic cat will not play, respond to treats, pats, or a soft voice. Your best bet with the lethargic cat is a companion cat to draw the poor thing out. Eventually, the damaged kitty will ask for a pat or scratch while you are most vulnerable – usually lying in bed or on the toilet. Give confident, gentle snuggling and use a soft voice. Do not make too much of a fuss – but let the cat know you like the new behavior. Move slowly because the cat is still quite traumatized. Once this behavior begins, you are well on your way to a friendly, but still stand-off-ish house cat. It may take a long time, and consistency is the key.

Never raise your voice around the cat. It will run. Every visit to the veterinary will be traumatic to it. Try to minimize visits and combine the purposes. Your cat will hide after each visit for as long as it feels upset. Continue to speak softly and care for the cat. It will come out and be friendly eventually. This type of cat has the longest memory for past hurts. If you take on a cat like this, be prepared for a long, intensive period of healing. Always remember, patience, love, a soft and kind voice will eventually do wonders. Abused cats need loving forever homes like all animals!

Consistent, gentle treatment and a soft voice are your best bets. If you tame the cat as if it were Feral, you will have the best results. Abused cats need loving forever homes like all animals! They need someone like you, their angel.

Dawn works with New Cat Condos to develop cat trees that your kitty can depend on. Be sure to visit their cat condo site where you can find the perfect cat condo for your kitty.

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Most cats do not like riding in cars. The uneasy feeling of movement beneath their paws is not at all common. They are used to one home and it doesn’t move.

A cat carrier or kennel is the best bet for keeping everyone safe and secure. This is some pros and cons to either the soft sided or rigid plastic. Typically you can attach a seat beat to either. This prevents the carrier from flying across the car should an evasive move need to be made by the driver. If your fur buddy is trained to walk on a harness and leash, make sure you get one that has the ability to be opened from the top. You as the Pet Parent need to make that decision, just like you would if you had a very small child.

For longer trips cross country you will need to plan ahead a few weeks before your trip. Take your cat on frequent car rides to get them used to the feeling of constant movement. Also look into pet friendly hotels and yes, restaurants for your planned route. You will need litter, food and water. If space permits in your vehicle, a crate is also a great idea for keeping everything in one confined space. You might even want to grab your cat’s favorite bed and of course their favorite toys. Do not forget the treats!

Finally always be mindful of where your cat is at all times and never your fur buddy in an unattended vehicle! It is subject to theft, heat exhaustion and more stress since his Pet Parent is out of sight.

Dawn works with New Cat Condos to develop cat trees that your kitty can depend on. Be sure to visit their cat condo site where you can find the perfect cat condo for your kitty.

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What is it that would make you prefer a dog over a cat? You may need to consider that you may have been influenced by your parents and other family members. Their preference became your preference. And if you check you may well find their preference came from their family and so on over the generations

However, by having an open mind, you may discover that felines are not “evil personified” as you may have been taught by your folks.

One of the tales passed on through the years has been the myth that a cat will steal your baby’s breath away. Years ago this type of myth was called an “old wife’s tale”. There is no scientific basis for this kind of reasoning.

Many feline experts feel when a cat gets into an infants face, it is simply satisfying its natural instinct; for wanting to know what’s new in its life.

Cats are creatures of habit and don;t like sudden changes that come into their life, it takes them time to acclimate to the change.

Another reason why cats are better than dogs is that they have a tendency to be more independent. Often times though the feline is just upset because
something new has occurred. You will quickly learn this by observing the way the cat reacts if you move or change the food and water dish. In most cases
if you move the dish back to its original position, your kitty will quickly get over its snit.

What is hard for a lot of dog lovers to understand is that cats can be trained, just as well or better than most dogs. True, cats may not be trained to be police dogs or rescue animals, but they can be trained to do the following:
* Walk on a leash outdoors
* Fetch a ball
* Walk on balance beam
* Beg for treats
* Play dead or roll over
* Roll over and play dead

Many cats, regardless of breed, are extremely loyal to their people master and the master’s family. They can sense the mood changes you, as a human may have. They are very sensitive to anger and high stressful situations. It is not unusual for them to try and comfort you when you are sad or lonely.

Another misconception, which many dog lovers seem to have is that cats are not affectionate. Wrong! These wonderful bundles of fur love to be loved and love to return love. When you return home in an evening, they may not jump all over you, but they will be rubbing and purring to get your attention as soon as you shut the door.

Did you know that cat’s can talk to you? Well, they can communicate with vocal sounds. They also use body language for different situations. Many cat experts believe that every sound a feline can make has a meaning. Such as:
1. Meowing – Attention needed
2. Caterwauling – Warning
3. Purring – Contentment

As you will soon see as you listen to the cat you will pick up on their “talking”, you will find if you have an open mind a cat can be a welcome addition to families that love pets. Cats not dogs may be your next pet if you want to try something different.

Learn more about cat training tips and products. Stop by cat training News where you can find out all about cat tips and products and what is the latest in cat tips and news.

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If you lost your best because it “ran away” or “got loose” of course you will grieve. After the sorrow has passed and you are now ready to get a new fur buddy you need to reflect back and asked “why did it happen?” In some parts of the United States many people build outdoor enclosures and install a pet door so their animal(s) can freely travel between in and out. The most common cause for pet loses for these people are they “forgot” the roof. Having a secure roof is a must.

If you live in the western U.S., there are many predators people don’t even think about. Of course there are the poisonous snakes. But, what about all of those other animals looking for a meal? Owls, wolves, coyotes, raptors and even javelina can all view your cat as their next snack. Cats by nature, (unless you exhaust them during the day with “play”), will want to explore at night. So, outside they go and from above come the owl. Silent flight makes this animal a deadly killer! Your cat will never hear the eminent danger.

The other types of raptors will take care of the daylight hours, searching constantly for their next meal. Wolves can burrow under fencing while coyotes can easily clear a five foot fence. Javelina have very poor eye sight but excellent smell. They will simply run threw the fence and literally eat anything.

So, what is the solution? Install a roof! Solid wood is best. However, this may be too costly and cumbersome for one person to do. Simply use some chain link fencing and make it the roof barrier. No matter how long you had your fur companion, I know from experience it is heart wrenching. Learn from the past and entire tomorrow with a sense of security.

Dawn works with New Cat Condos to manufacture a quality cat tree that your kitty can count on. Be sure to check out their pagoda cat house which features a distinct eastern pagoda house look.

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Those of us who have lost a fur companion and try to find comfort and sympathy from someone who has never owned a pet and experience a loss will often find disappointment. Grieving pet people who have experienced such a heart shattering moment will agree that non-pet owners simply can not understand these emotions.

We often hear; “it was just a cat, why don’t get another one”, “it is nothing like loosing a child!”, or the worse, “get over it”. “Get over it”, what in the world are these people thinking? Yes, loosing your closest fur companion is not like loosing a child. But yes, your fur companion was your “child”, your “teenager”, “adult” and “senior”. For nearly every pet parent their dearest, closest and most trusted friend was their fur buddy! Comparing is not fair, so why do so many of those non-pet owners have such thoughtless things to say? I do not have the answer for this question. However, I can make some helpful suggestions to help you cope with the loss.

Seeking out other pet owners may help. You know them, perhaps from the store you buy pet supplies, from the shelter/rescue you adopted your well loved animal or if you attend, your place of worship. Secondly, seek out “Pet Grief Support” groups. If you have access, (and here the public library may help), the internet is a great resource of information in finding one in your area. I have personally attended these meetings and made friends. All of which provided gave me unbelievable support!

So, how will you remember your loved one? Each of us has his or her particular way to grieve. Cremation with the ashes spread over an area or beautiful urn is one way. A burial with your close friends is another. Taking that photo album off the library shelves and turning it into a coffee table book is another. Finally, during those lonely nights alone, go outside and look up at the stars above. Here is their joy and soul, free to roam from their ill bodies. All or several of these will help you to move on.

Want to find out more about keyword #1, then visit Dawn Kavanaugh’s site on how to choose the best keyword #2 for your needs.

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Many would classify the Maine Coon as a “lap” cat. This breed is a very affectionate cat and often will search out its Pet Parent for love and attention and what better place than its companion’s lap! This is not to say that they will not play, but the level of exercise is less intense. When the Pet Parent is away this breed loves to snuggle up in a cubby on your favorite piece of cat furniture. They will play with common cat toys, such as balls of yarn and catnip filled pillows. Investing in every single “toy” on the market may not be the wisest decision.

The opposite of the Maine Coon would be the Bengal or American Bobcat. These breeds are “hunters”. Sitting in your lap will probably only happen if the cat is ill. Also, they are unhappy with being carried or held. By nature, they are on the prowl for their next “kill”. Thus to them it is never “playing” but rather stocking. For these breeds simply tossing a “toy” on the floor will not work for more than an hour. All breeds need human interaction. However, these require extra human interaction. First hide their morning and evenings meals. Make them hunt down their food. Never always leave their favorite prey out 24 hours a day. Hide it from them when not at home and occasionally for days. However, always hide in the same place. You will find they will go to that place and talk to you, “it’s time to hunt”.

Regardless of the breed, a cat will send you signals that they are bored and want to play or hunt. It is important to be alert to these signs and be responsive. This is lead to a happy cat, a happy Pet Parent and thus a happy home.

Finally, choose the breed that fits your personality. All too often people adopt, (yes I said adopt and not purchase), a breed is based upon how they look and feel. The Maine Coon is not right for some, just like the American Bobcat could be a disaster for others.

Dawn works with New Cat Condos to manufacture a quality cat house that your kitty can count on. Be sure to check out cat house to find even more cat houses.

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Did you know that cats usually land on their feet because of their flexible spines?

Cats love dark, enclosed places like dryers! Make sure you check yours before using it.

Most lively, active kittens grow up to be friendly, outgoing cats.

After reaching maturity one cat can have over 420 kittens in her life and her kittens can do the same! YIKES- spay and neuter.

Cats sometimes have a hard time accepting a new cat because cats don’t usually crave companionship in quite the same way a dog does.

Did you know that your cat does not understand the difference between new and old furniture? So do not encourage kitty to scratch on nay furniture.

Cats that get trapped in trees can usually find their way down with a little help from you. Place an open can of their favorite food at the bottom and let them be. Most will make their way down in a few hours.

A cat’s night vision is six times better than a humans.

Cats can retract their claws by flexing their toes. This makes them silent but deadly when hunting.

Cats have an extra organ in their mouth that helps their sense of smell called a vomeronasal organ.

Did you know that cats born with no tails have longer back legs and a shorter spine?

Deaf cats do not meow.

Most cats are lactose intolerant.

Did you know that a cat eats grass to keep its digestive system cleaned out?
The grass causes vomiting which removed things like hair.

Did you know a healthy cat has a cool, dry nose?

Cats do not scratch your furniture to make you angry- they do this (and they need to do it) to care for their claws.

Cat’s move their tails back and forth when they are concentrating. When the tail starts lashing quickly they are most likely getting annoyed or over stimulated.

Cats rub to mark ownership. They have glands on their lips as well as at the base of the tail just so they can mark their territory.

Looking for the perfect cat condos for your kitty? Then visit Dawns site where you can find the perfect cat tree for your kitty.

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Here is a nasty fact to amaze and horrify your friends: Fleas are awesome jumpers and can make a 33 centimeter leap! That is over 1 foot. If you are challenged by a flea infestation there is no need to worry. They can be eradicated fairly easily.

Fleas have been around for a long time and have been pests of animals and humans for many years. They are actually carriers of some pretty terrible germs as well:

* Fleas transmit the bacterium Yersinia pestis from rats to humans; and therefore are required for the transmission of bubonic plague, which caused the deaths of as many as 25 million people during the 14th Century.
* Fleas transmit murine typhus.
* Fleas are hosts to Dipylidium caninum, or tapeworms, as they are more commonly known. Dogs, cats, other pets, or humans who accidentally swallow an infected flea (for example, while playing with a pet who has fleas) can develop a tapeworm infection.
* Fleas can cause painful rashes, especially in sensitive individuals. These rashes may become infected when the affected individual scratches them.

These days we know so much about fleas and how to deal with them. No need ever allow an infestation to continue. Here are some ways to start ridding yourself of these pests.

* Wash all bedding thoroughly. While the bedding is free of coverings, vacuum the mattress, particularly in the crevices, where eggs might hide.
* Vacuum carpeting daily and dispose of used vacuum bags. I do not recommend placing flea collars in the vacuum bag, as the heat generated by the machine could cause noxious fumes.
* Steam-clean carpeting. This will kill any remaining eggs the vacuum might have missed.
* If necessary, use a whole-house insect bomb which specifically targets fleas. It is critical to remove all food dishes and live animals, including birds during this process. You may consider hiring a professional for this job, but make sure he knows you have cats, and will use a cat-safe product.
* Hire a professional to treat outdoors areas. Insist on a “cat-friendly” product for this purpose. If you have an outdoor cat, keep him confined inside for the day.

Dawn works with New Cat Condos to manufacture a quality cat house that your kitty can count on. Be sure to check out cat house to find even more cat houses.

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FIV is not a sexually transmitted disease in cats. Instead it is contracted through bite wounds. That is why a stable, altered, indoor community of cats rarely deals with this disease. There are cases of mother cats infecting their kittens when their cats are born through contact with the birth canal or through mom’s milk.

There are two simple ways to test for FIV. One is right in the vets office and takes 10 minutes. The vet draws some blood and places it in a snap or ELISA test. If the result in the office is inconclusive then the vet may send away a lab test which will provide results in a couple of days. However, just because a cat tests negative for FIV now does not mean that later it will still be negative. This test is a snapshot of time.

The immune system is affected by FIV. Many owners do not even realize that their cats have the disease because cats can live symptom free for a long time. However, even though they are not showing symptoms they are still contagious. Symptoms of an active FIV cat are:
* Dull coat and poor maintenance of coat
* A fever that does not go away
* Stomatitis – a dental disease
* Upper Respiratory Infections, Bladder Infections
* Skin infections that do not clear up
* Seizures
* A cat that is eating and drinking but wasting away

As stated above even cats with FIV can live long lives. Keeping them indoors and stress free is one of the keys to longevity.

Certainly, if your cat is FIV negative you will want him to stay that way. Keeping him indoors and altering are the first two ways to do this. If you are introducing a new cat be sure that it has been tested. Work with your vet to create a plan that will keep all your felines in top condition.

Dawn works with New Cat Condos to manufacture a quality cat tree that your kitty can count on. Be sure to check out their pagoda cat house which features a distinct eastern pagoda house look.

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